Intelligent Power Today Magazine

While the threat of shock and electrocution from inadvertent contact with energized parts has long been recognized, the arc flash and arc blast hazards have only fairly recently been incorporated into the electrical safety standards.

The U.S. federal agency the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) enforces electrical workplace safety standards outlined in the National Fire Protection Association’s NFPA 70E: “Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace”. Basic compliance with guidelines in the NFPA 70E 2015 Edition, can be established with a five-step process.

Arc flash applications are increasing in popularity among engineers and electricians when examining hazards presented by an arc flash. Professionals search for accessible tools to help reduce dangers associated with arc flash as well as to assist in selecting adequate personal protective equipment (PPE). Mobile apps for arc flash analysis can be useful for assessing the hazards before working on energized equipment.

Contrary to many simple and complex computer programs used for power system and arc flash hazard analysis, only a handful of arc flash apps are available for purchase. Each app, available in either the Apple Store (iPhone) or...